4 Tips for Writing Effective Emails

Being able to write effective emails is a crucial skill for project managers. Here are four tips to help you write emails that get the results you seek.

1. Ask for something. All business writing includes a call to action. Before you write your email, know what you're asking of your audience.
   
   
2. Say it up front. Don't bury the purpose of your email in the last paragraph. Include important information in the subject line and opening sentence
   
   
3. Explain. Don't assume your reader knows anything. Provide all pertinent background information and avoid elusive references.
   
   
4. Tell them what you think. Don't use the dreaded "Your thoughts?" without explaining your own. Express your opinion before asking your reader to do the same.